1968

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1968 Notes
Leading up to to 1968
  • No clear cut winner in the war
  • Increase in American forces in SE Asia
  • Viet Cong proved to be the guiding force in South Vietnam
  • US tries to "pacify" South Vietnam
  • LBJ remains determined

  • Optimistic reports sent back from advisors
  • McNamara sees "a light at the end of the tunnel"
  • Overall - public supported America in Vietnam

The TET Offensive
  • Attack on U. strongholds throughout South Vietnam by Viet Cong
  • VC attacks American bases and embassies, as well as cities
  • Changes positive outlook on the war (no longer near the end)
  • Attack fails but goes on for a month - eventually developing into a US victory
  • Shook the public, who thought the enemy was close to defeat
  • Ultimately hurt LBJ in particular
  • LBJ struggles - Congress cuts Great Society budget
  • US involvement openly criticized
  • New Defense Secretary states that the war is unbeatable

Public Opinion Changes
  • Nation turns on Johnson, and he says he is no longer the man for the job
  • 5 days later, MLK assassinated - Led to riots
  • A leader is needed - Robert Kennedy leading the Democratic race - has a lot going for him (pro - civil rights, is a Kennedy)
  • Kennedy is assassinated after winning CA primary

The 1968 Election
  • Deciding between Humphrey and McCarthy
  • Humphrey is VP, so he is associated with LBJ - not goods
  • Led to BAD riots at the convention in Chicago
  • Humphrey wins democratic nom.
  • Up against Richard Nixon - pushing for peace and George Wallace
  • Nixon wins, promising peace and honor